Bakiev Says 'No Need' To Dismiss Kyrgyz Parliament

(RFE/RL)
October 27, 2006 (RFE/RL) -- Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiev said today in the face of growing criticism over planned constitutional reforms that he currently sees no need to dismiss the legislature.

Addressing reporters after talks with representatives of nongovernmental organizations, Bakiev said he still hopes that he and lawmakers reach a consensus by November 20 on what form of government better suits Kyrgyzstan.

He said that if that does not happen, he will call for a national referendum on the constitutional issue in December and that the referendum might include a question on the expediency of dismissing parliament.

"I believe this is an extreme step, that we should resort to this measure only in cases of extreme necessity," Bakiev said. "Today's situation does not require that we make such a step. There is no need to dismiss parliament now. I urge you to understand me correctly. The question is not whether we should dismiss parliament. The only question is whether parliament is ready to work constructively."

Lawmakers accuse Bakiev of reneging on pre-election pledges to amend the constitution in a way that would curtail his prerogatives.

The opposition has called for an open-ended protest rally in Bishkek on November 2 in a bid to accelerate the constitutional reform.

Bakiev today cautioned organizers against stirring troubles in the Kyrgyz capital, saying any unrest would be met with force.